HBI (Hot Briquetted Iron) Lumps from China
Hot briquetted iron in lump form made from direct reduced iron, compacted while hot to prevent reoxidation, with iron content around 90-92%. Falls under HTS 7203.90.00.00 as 'other spongy ferrous products' in lumps from direct reduction of iron ore. Commonly shipped internationally for EAF steel production.
Duty Rate — China → United States
25%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
9903.05.860%Universal product exemption (U.S. note 52(b))
Import Tips
• Include briquetting process documentation and density specs (>5 g/cm³) to distinguish from loose DRI and prevent reclassification
• Declare exact moisture content (<2%) as high moisture can trigger safety regulations for cargo handling
• Use ISRI or similar grading certificates to prove metallic iron content and avoid duties under scrap headings